Typological Analysis of Housing Precedents on Flexibility - Case Studies of the 20th Century Housing Projects in the United States and Europe -Kim, Ma-rie; Yoon, Chae-Shin;

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to have comprehensive understanding on how the concept of 'flexibility' is interpreted and practiced during 20th century. This approach is based on the premise that each architect took different attitude toward the concept of 'flexibility' according to their historic situation and cultural background. The first half of this paper explores the historic and cultural differences of whom thought the flexibility as important theme in their housing projects (since 1920 till recent times). The second half finds the typological differences and similarities of the projects, to categorizes into seven types. Over the past century several efforts have been attempted to improve housing flexibility as a strategy for the activation of the housing industry in times of war or crisis. 1920s Germany is characterized by strong socialistic hue, and 1940s the United States by private entrepreneurs' commerciality. But everyone was looking for what is sure to be commercialized in accordance with the purpose of suppliers to activate the housing industry. From a small part of the channels, panels, and to the whole house, the extent of commercialization was searched. Since the 1970s in Europe, Structuralist architects have criticized the producer oriented point of view of the previous generation. And they developed methodologies to leave the decision right to the residents. The margin appeared as an buffer area to accommodate various changes in function or in plan shapes. The margin was an introvert small area, but in 1980s it started to accommodate various functions, or as a means to control territorial changes it became extrovert.